A recent study published by the Centers for Disease Control found that women are more likely to use walking as a form of leisure, exercise, or transportation, compared to men [1]. The study analyzed survey data from 75,000 individuals across the United States between the years 2005 and 2015. They found that while the number of both male and female walkers significantly increased between 2005 and 2015, women were outpacing men by several percentage points.

Walking is an excellent way to stay in shape, as it is one of the safest, convenient, and affordable forms of physical activity. The study authors suggest that walking should be encouraged, especially amongst women, since only 47% of women in the U.S. meet the recommended guidelines for physical activity [2].

With the surge of new health technologies such as wearable fitness trackers or mobile phones with built-in health apps, it is incredibly easy to track physical activity. Some reports suggest that aiming for 10,000 steps a day is ideal, although that may change based on your age and health status [3-4]. So, get walking! 

For more tips on how to incorporate walking into your daily routine, visit the following resources:

• Centers for Disease Control 
• American Heart Association  

References:
1. Ussery et al., MMWR. 2017; 66(25);657–662.
2. Center for Disease Control 
3. Tudor-Locke & Bassett. Sports Med. 2004;34(1):1-8.
4. Schneider et al., Am J Health Promot. 2006;21(2):85-9.